Launch of Australia's first purple striped coin

Australia's Governor General Quentin Bryce AC CVO has launched the country's first purple striped coin, to mark the sixtieth anniversary of the Queen's coronation.

The $2 coin features three regal purple concentric stripes bordering St Edward’s Crown, designed by the Royal Australian Mint after extensive consultation with Buckingham Palace. Its launch came after a publicity campaign from the Royal Australian Mint which used social media sites to build excitement about the coin.

Bernie Ripoll MP, Parliamentary Secretary to the Treasurer, said: 'The 60th anniversary of the Coronation of Her Majesty Queen Elizabeth II is an important milestone that has only been achieved by one other monarch in history, and it is fitting that it has been chosen to be commemorated on Australia’s coloured circulating $2 coin. This is another fine example of innovation from the Royal Australian Mint and it is a great way to help educate and create awareness of milestones that are important to the Australian community.'

To purchase the coin, visit the Royal Australian Mint website.

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